South Korea is launching a major consular reform plan to protect citizens trapped by scams in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. Moreover, the consular reform plan will add 40 specialized personnel and introduce an early warning system to detect risks proactively.
Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said the consular reform plan strengthens Korea’s overseas presence. In addition, some staff will support headquarters operations, while others will serve abroad.
The early warning system will monitor high-risk areas using the 24/7 consular call center and overseas missions. Previously, officials only acted after receiving calls. However, now they will intervene before incidents escalate.
Around 1,000 Koreans face risks from online scam syndicates in Cambodia. Furthermore, Cambodian authorities recently arrested 10 Koreans linked to these operations and rescued two who had been confined. Authorities plan to repatriate all 12 to Seoul this week.
Earlier, police repatriated 64 Koreans for alleged involvement in fraud. Additionally, authorities issued arrest warrants for 59 individuals, released four without charges, and detained one immediately.
Most victims were young Koreans lured by online job ads promising high salaries. Consequently, criminals forced them to participate in scams or extortion schemes. Meanwhile, the foreign ministry continues coordinating with Cambodian authorities to locate 80 missing Koreans.
Officials emphasized that Seoul will avoid actions that could spark a diplomatic dispute. Therefore, they rejected proposals to cut aid or deploy military operations. Instead, they will strengthen Cambodian law enforcement through training and equipment under existing aid programs.
A ministry official said the consular reform plan represents proactive measures to prevent future crises. In this way, authorities aim to reduce the vulnerability of Koreans abroad.
Ultimately, the consular reform plan demonstrates Seoul’s commitment to protecting its citizens and enhancing consular capabilities worldwide.
